Foundation vs. Tinted Moisturizer

If you’ve ever wasted precious minutes in the makeup aisle agonizing over the differences between liquid foundation and tinted moisturizer, we’re here to set the record straight.

For all intents and purposes, there are more similarities between the two products than differences – but, as always, the devil’s in the details.

Here’s everything you need to know to pick the perfect coverage for your skin.

So, What’s the Difference, Anyway?

When beauty editors road test tinted moisturizers and liquid foundations for their magazine, they get down to brass tacks: how well does the product cover imperfections? How heavy does the foundation feel once applied on the skin?

And while those are important notes to cover – more on that below! – we’re grateful to editors who take the time to suss out what makes these products different – and who should be using them.

“Tinted moisturizers are usually best for women with dry skin and women that don’t need quite as much coverage,” explains Romanowski at Self.

As you might be able to guess from the name, tinted moisturizer is pigmented – which means it’s perfect if you just need a light correcting base. It can also include other goodies, like sunscreen or antioxidants, to help keep your skin looking young and fresh.

Liquid foundation, on the other hand, has very little of the moisturizing properties in tinted moisturizer – and way more pigment.

That’s part of what makes liquid foundation such an appealing choice for fashion editors – not only does it provide an incredible base to build up your look, but it also masks any and all imperfections.

“It’s better to go darker than lighter, so you warm up your skin instead of looking too pale," Mercier adds.

After applying both moisturizer and primer, add a coat of tinted moisturizer and set with loose powder or setting powder.

Because liquid foundation is matte, it provides the ideal starting point for a killer, pared-back face perfect for going from office to on the town – plus, it offers a lot more coverage than tinted moisturizer.

2. Mark Your Calendars

Warmer weather equals less makeup, which means reaching for a lighter base like tinted moisturizer.

Not only will this strategy give your pores a vacation from heavy, pore-clogging foundation, but both tinted moisturizer and BB cream often include sunscreen in their formulas (bonus!). When you’re on the go, it’s nice to have at least one one-and-done product in your makeup bag.

But, if you can’t live without foundation in warmer months, try out a powder version for maximum coverage with minimal weight.

5. Textured Trio

If you tend to suffer from breakouts or are simply looking for more coverage, then foundation’s definitely the way to go.

But how do you begin to tell which foundation will work best for you?

While some of this comes down – yet again – to personal preference, many foundations are designed with specific skin types in mind.

Let’s break it down:

Liquid foundation: Even in this category, there are tons of options! Have trouble with breakouts? Look for a foundation that’s oil-free – even a water-based foundation will do. Worried about drying out? Opt for a moisture-rich formula to keep your pores hydrated.

Powder foundation: Sensitive skin does best with a mineral-based loose powder foundation, while pressed powder foundations work wonders for oily or combination skin.

Cream foundation: If your skin needs a little extra moisture, opt for a creamy foundation and apply with a makeup brush for even coverage.

While skin type can go a long way towards pointing you in the right direction, finding the best shade for your skin tone is perhaps even more important – unless you want to have a weird ring of foundation around your jawline, or look like you’re two different shades in those reunion photos.

According to CoverGirl scientist Sarah Vickery, most women struggle with finding the right color.

“Only 15 percent of women choose the correct shade if the appropriate tools aren't provided,” Vickery told Fitness. Ouch! That means many of us are stumbling around in the dark.

If you can, try a little bit of the shade on your hand in natural light before taking it home. If it doesn’t work for you, most major pharmacies will take makeup back or offer a refund.

Don’t be shy in asking for help, either – it definitely doesn’t pay to wear the wrong shade all season long.